Theme: Gifts that tide Christians over

Exegetical note
In this opening to his epistle, Paul gives thanks for the spiritual gifts that the Corinthians have been given, and even singles out the very two (speech and knowledge) about which he will later express misgivings, at least with respect to their application among these people. The reference to the parousia, however, makes it clear that these are gifts to "tide them over" until "the end."

Call to Worship
(based on Psalm 145)
Leader: Great is God and greatly to be praised!
People: THE GREATNESS OF GOD…